William Shimmie Miller, a prominent anti-violence activist and mentor in Youngstown, Ohio, was shot and killed on June 12, 2024. The Mahoning County Coroner’s Office confirmed he was found dead inside a vehicle in the 900 block of Steel Street near Salt Springs Road. Miller had spent more than two decades in prison before his 2019 release and had since led efforts such as the Youngstown RESPECT basketball league to mentor local youth.

Officials have released few details about the circumstances, motives, or any suspects. Miller’s death was reported as the city’s 11th homicide of the year and occurred amid a recent increase in local shootings; two other people had been shot to death just days earlier. Crime Stoppers has offered a reward for information leading to an arrest, and investigators are asking anyone with knowledge to come forward.

If anyone knew William, his work, or was in the area on June 12, please contact investigators with any information.